Proceedings

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Pro033

Properties of the concrete matrix of self-compacting concrete with lignosulphonate superplasticizer

Abstract: The admixture used in self-compacting concrete is normally based on polycarboxylate polymers. For this investigation, a lignosulphonate-based superplasticizer was used and compared to a commercially available polycarboxylate superplasticizer. The yield value of the concrete is expected to be reduced by the admixture. The plastic viscosity can be controlled by addition of rheology modifying admixture or by addition of extra fines in the concrete.Self-compacting concrete was designed using the particle-matrix model. The workability of fresh concrete is highly dependent on the rheological properties of the matrix. This is the reason it is so important to understand the influence of superplasticizers on the matrix's properties. The amount of matrix will determine whether the particle or the matrix properties dominate the fresh concrete. The rheological properties of the concrete matrix were investigated to describe and understand the basics determining the properties of the fresh concrete. The matrix was investigated by different rheological instruments. The effect of the admixture on the rheological properties are described and discussed in the context that self-compacting concrete was produced with lignosulphonate based superplasticizer.